HOLLIDAY HOWE: INTERVIEW

June 11, 2021

by danielle holian

Holliday Howe, Sydney’s finest cyber-hyper-popstar, producer, and songwriter has teamed up with scene legend Himera for their hyperpop track “Digital Affection.” “I wrote ‘Digital Affection’ as the world was entering lockdown [COVID-19], about my journey back to Australia, leaving behind my life in London. We were spending more time online so we were increasingly connected — but all one needs to do to forever disappear from your life is log off. I'm asking them to stay online for me, to not disconnect, to not leave me in the dark,” she comments on the track. We caught up with Holliday Howe to discuss all things music below!

For our readers, please tell us a bit about your background in music.

Holliday: “I’ve been writing songs since I can remember — they weren’t always very good. But I can’t remember a time in my life where I didn’t want to perform and make music. I’ve been studying classical piano since I was seven years old and producing electronic music for the past six years or so.”

Who or what are your musical influences?

H: “The PC Music producers and SOPHIE have all been massive inspirations for me. EASYFUN in particular. Then there’s William Orbit who did a lot of Madonna’s late 90s and early 00s stuff. Recently my favorite pop star has been Rina Sawayama — she’s not afraid to make bold creative choices and I admire that a lot.”

You just released your new single “Digital Affection” with Himera. What can you tell us about this track and what inspired it?

H: “I wrote ‘Digital Affection’ at the very very beginning of the pandemic about being in isolation and not being able to talk to my friends — and then I moved from London back to my hometown in Sydney and that made communicating even harder. Everyone was doing Zooms and trying to catch up, which was lovely, but there was still a little disconnect! It’s all about missing those people and hoping that they will ‘stay online’ for you.”

What do you want the listeners to take away from your music?

H: “A sense of understanding — hopefully they can relate and not feel so alone.”

How has your music evolved since you began?

H: “Originally I wanted to be a singer-songwriter on the piano like Regina Spektor but then I went off to London to study music and discovered PC Music and started making what I called at the time ‘hyperpop’ — I still attest to this day that I was the first to start using the term to define my genre of music.”

And how has the pandemic helped your creative juices?

H: “It’s made me more resourceful. Everyone is also trapped and it means that collaborations have gone up the wah-zoo! I’ve gotten to make some interesting music with interesting people because we’re all essentially stuck inside or can’t travel.”

Finally, what’s one fun fact about you for our readers?

H: “I had appendicitis for 3 YEARS before I got it cut out.”

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JENA ROSE: INTERVIEW

June 9, 2021

by mariah estran

Jena Rose is in control when it comes to the strategic game relationships can produce. She is taking back the power, calling the shots by releasing an empowering new single and video for “Checkmate” on June 11th.

After watching Queen’s Gambit, Rose found herself inspired by the powerful storylines, and of course, the competitive tactics of chess. She describes, “What would chess look like in a relationship? I am taking power back and saying, ‘checkmate.'"

Musically, finding inspiration from 80s hitmakers like Depeche Mode, the tune is electrifying. It packs a pop punch with its moody, synth-filled beat.

As for the video, the theme is on a bigger scale. Think large chess pieces, a queen’s throne, and luxe fashion statements. Directed by Veronica Zelle and produced by Frank Simonetti (Sweety High), Rose’s management, the group found a way to merge the Disney classic Alice in Wonderland with Queen’s Gambit. “We are playing chess in an apartment, then it transitions to a life-size chessboard with life-size chess pieces,” the singer shares about the video.

She has already gifted fans the twenty-second teaser for the release. In that short amount of time, we experience the flashes of grandeur that make pop music so fabulous.

Recently signed to Gem Street Music, the singer is bound to leave an impression and have us wanting more.

We had the chance to speak with Rose about “Checkmate” before it’s out in the world. She told us more about the inspiration, what the visual entails, how she’s finding her sound, and what we can expect from her upcoming debut EP, Baby, Maybe.

At just 20-years-old, you have toured with numerous acts, such as Aly & AJ, and had global success with tracks like “Forever Yours.” What pushed you to pursue a career in music?

Jena: “I’ve always had a love for music, ever since I was a little girl. I always played piano and guitar. It’s just been in my heart forever, and I always knew I wanted to do it. I think it was after my first performance, when I was nine, at the House of Blues was when I was like ‘wow.’ I stepped on stage — I was always so shy, but when I got on stage, it was like, this is my home, this is what I want to do.”

You are about to release your new single, “Checkmate.” What can you tell us about the track and what inspired it?

J: “I’m sure you’ve heard of the ‘Queens Gambit.’ It’s such a girl-power show. It sparked a love for chess in me too. I think with ‘Checkmate,’ I decided to do a spin on that. What would chess look like in a relationship? I am taking power back and saying, ‘checkmate.’ You can relate that to your life in so many other ways and relationships. If people don’t value you, you, and if you know your worth, that’s all you need.”

Tell us more about what we can expect from the “Checkmate” music video?

J: “The story is about a guy and me — it’s a toxic relationship. We are playing chess in an apartment. Then it transitions to a life-size chess board with life-size chess pieces.

We are playing chess in real life and relate it to our lives and relationship. I dance in it. The choreographer, Richy Jackson — he’s Lady Gaga’s choreographer. He is so amazing. It was an honor to work with him — he had this vision and executed it to perfection.

It was directed by my manager, Veronica Zelle. She started out directing music videos and producing music videos. So, she always has visions and is so creative.”

How did you work yourself up to incorporate choreography into your story?

J: “Dance is something that I love. I’ve been in dance lessons three times a week for a while now. I feel very myself when dancing. On set, it translated as well, I felt like myself, I felt at home.”

You have this sound that showcases an electronic dance influence while still having an R&B-type flare. How would you say you have continued to develop your sound over the years?

J: “I feel like every young artist — their sound is constantly developing in their songs. I’m changing and growing as a person, which reflects in my music as well. I feel like, with 80’s influences. I grew up listening to Depeche Mode and Elton John. So many 80s artists. That’s reflecting in my music right now.”

These singles are leading up to your debut EP, Baby, Maybe. What can listeners expect from this upcoming project?

J: “I feel like once you hear ‘Checkmate,’ you’ll get it. It’s a lot of those vibes, and it includes a ballad I’m really excited about too. We have some exciting things in the works, and I am so excited for everyone to hear.”

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'BASED ON A TRUE STORY' / BRYNN CARTELLI: REVIEW

June 4, 2021

by lauren kovolenko

Brynn Cartelli - Based on A True Story EP Art.jpg

Our lives can feel like moments in time, or a collection of all moments put together like a movie. Brynn Cartelli’s new EP, Based on a True Story, is a perfect collection of songs for your story arc. From beginning to end of the track list, you can imagine yourself going through a movie plot line.

“If I Could” starts with the longing for someone to understand that they are being hurt. She mentions wanting to be there for them even though the person is constantly making bad decisions. That’s what friends are for — to lean on.

To continue our timeline, “Imaginary Stranger” looks to the feelings of missing someone you never met, but have always known. The tempo of this song keeps the message and the visuals strong with drum beats and an echoing chorus.

A personal favorite, “Long Way Home” follows another piece of our life’s movie — seeing fake people and small town ways. The longing for an escape, so the real ones take a different way. This track is the climax of our story, following the rising action on the prior track. A more upbeat song for you to blast in the car with your best friends.

“Love You In My Mind” follows the idea that an infatuation is created for someone you have never met. Maybe that song or late night drive has you thinking about them. The street lights illuminate your face and your feelings. These limitless feelings.

When you finally reach your destination, play “We Belong.” This is a perfect song for when things feel… perfect. The end credits are just about to roll as you dance around in the rain. This song is a great anthem track that lets you scream your heart out.

The EP finished up with “Jane,” a more somber track for your denouement. When the fun is over, you conflict with yourself. Wondering if you ever deserved a chance, or wondering if you are even a good person. The cycle repeats.

Life is the ups and downs. It is the good and bad moments in one. Your film roll will fill when you decide it is done. The memories keep being made, as long as you let them. This EP is a great reminder that we have songs to help us through.

RIKAS: INTERVIEW

June 3, 2021

by mariah estran

Is it the song of the summer you’re searching for? Well, we might have found it, or possibly one you’ll have on repeat. Rikas is back with their first release of 2021, “Stereo.”

The three-minute tune is sensational. An electrifying concoction of plucky guitar-strums, and a dance-inducing drum cadence could possess anyone to bounce in the street. The band harmonizes, singing, “I keep dreaming in stereo.” And honestly, we might be in a dream after pressing play.

Collaborating with director Aladin Mekanovic, the band decided to give the single an eccentric music video. Inspired by the visual aesthetic of “Queens Gambit,” they depicted the band up for sale. Individuals gawk as the group performs in living rooms, making viewers wonder how tangible a band can be in the digital age.

Rikas took time to tell us more about “Stereo,” the meaning behind the music video, how their sound has developed, and what we can expect next.

You’ve just released the new single, “Stereo.” What can you tell us about the track and what inspired it?

Rikas: “The song came from a personal point of view. It is based on the feeling of a failed relationship. The kind of one that you lose yourself in. And after the last fight has been fought, it almost feels like a dream. ‘I keep dreaming in stereo’ — This phrase is based on Phoenix’ song ‘Telefono,’ where Thomas Mars sings about his melancholy and detachment due to his long-distance relationship with actress Sofia Coppola. We felt understood in some way when we first heard that song and that line in particular.”

This is your first single release of 2021! What made you all feel that it would be the perfect track to follow up the much-loved single, “Overthinking?“

R: “‘Overthinking’ was a more introverted track. So we thought it would be nice to follow up with something more powerful and energetic. And I think ‘Stereo’ is a perfect summer song, especially as we are getting ready to perform at some festivals.”

To complete the release of “Stereo," you also got to work with Aladin Mekanovic and made a fantastic music video inspired by “Queens Gambit.” How do you feel the visual compliments the track?

R: “First of all, we gotta thank Aladin for working with us on this video. We developed the idea together, and we knew that ‘Stereo’ would be the perfect song with the Band for Sale concept. I love how the video has a very aesthetic but slow tempo in terms of the storyline, but then you have this fast track. You would think that it should not fit together, but it works very well somehow.”

A large portion of the visual is the band being up for auction, as if we can have artists at our disposal. If any, what's the meaning behind this depiction?

R: “These days kids get more hyped by Twitch DJs than real bands, and we sometimes feel like the idea, and the concept of a band is a dying handicraft. Like we had The Beatles, and we had Queen. So, do we feel there is still a need for a band in general? Especially with COVID, we had the feeling that there is no need for us. We're not able to perform, and that's essentially one of the main parts of the job! And yes, with Spotify and all the streaming services, artists do feel disposable sometimes. You always gotta put out new music, and create super cool content for TikTok or Instagram, if you wanna play the game. And I think that has a big impact on the mental health of an artist.”

How do you feel “Stereo” showcases your sound development over the last year?

R: “After we put out our debut album, Showtime, in 2019, we struggled to find a new sound in some ways. So, we started to work track by track. We even collaborated with different producers and kind of opened up our bubble a bit. I think ‘Stereo’ has a more modern approach in terms of production and songwriting.”

This single is just the introduction to what’s to come next! But what can listeners expect from Rikas following the release of this single?

R: “We have got a summer packed full of releases, and we are super happy to finally put out some new music. I don’t want to spoil too much, but I would say there is a very nice palette of new music, and every listener will choose a favorite color as every song stands for itself. :)”

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GRACE AIMI: INTERVIEW

June 2, 2021

by emily harris

Twenty-year-old Grace Aimi has just released her debut EP PICNIC. The six tracks define her radiant but raspy sound and place her as a strong force within the industry. The biracial Gen Z songstress is using her platform to connect with fans across the globe. We had the chance to chat with her about the eighteen minute long EP and her career as a whole!

Congrats on the release of your debut EP PICNIC! How does it feel to finally have these six songs out?

Grace: “Thank you very much. Words can’t even describe how happy I’ve been feeling since the release of my EP. Knowing that my supporters can now listen to a body of work from me makes feel really grateful and giddy inside. I’m enjoying this lil picnic, but I can’t wait to drop the next one.”

Can we discuss how eclectic your EP artwork is! What was the inspiration behind the blend of cartoons and your self-portrait?

G: “As a kid I’ve always loved drawing and painting, so much so that I was actually thinking about going to art school after high school. I think I’m a pretty animated character in real life so it felt right to mix normal Grace with animation Grace. She’s my little sidekick.”

Where did the title PICNIC originate from?

G: “I always wish I could answer this kind of question with a cool back story, but it just came from wanting people to feel like they’re at a picnic when they listen to my EP. Who doesn’t like having a picnic?”

The fifth track, “My Eyes,” is one of your most streamed songs. What is it about this track that you think resonates with so many people?

G: “I think ‘My Eyes’ is popular because it’s a song about cheating, but I wrote it to sound really light and simple. Like, shit happens sometimes and you just have to move on, and it’s better to feel good inside when you do, keep that love around you as you move. :) I think it’s a song that you can just play and have fun. ‘My Eyes’ is one of my mom’s favorites.”

What inspired you to begin the EP with a song like “Eternal Sunshine?”

G: “You can’t start a good picnic without some nice sunshine! Right when I made ‘Eternal Sunshine’ I knew that there was something about it. That’s why I made it my debut single and first song in my EP. It’s a song that purely makes me feel happy. Everybody loves the sunshine.”

Why did you choose to end the EP with a track like “True Feelings,” the shortest track on PICNIC?

G: “I wrote ‘True Feelings’ when I was feeling the most sad and depressed in my life and it’s my first song that I got vulnerable on about myself. I’ll write a sad vulnerable love song any day, but writing about your own demons and monsters can make you feel very open to harm. I was able to put those emotions into something beautiful and real. After writing this song I felt a lot of the weight that I had been carrying on my shoulders fly away and I think that I wanted others to feel the same way. Everyone has their own ups and downs and spots that they’d rather hide, but that’s what makes us special. Maybe I subconsciously wanted to end the EP letting people know that you don’t have to hide your true feelings??”

How has being so young within the industry affected how you write and produce your music?

G: “I don’t think I’ve been in the industry long enough to see it affect me in anyway, but I think being young gives me a fresh opinion on life. Age is a really big and important part of Japanese culture so I don’t think anything will affect me just because of my age.”

What song would you recommend someone to listen to if they haven’t heard of you before?

G: “I’d say ‘True Feelings.’ It perfectly shows my personality, the happy and sad parts of me. But they should just go ahead and listen to all of them if they’re already typing my name [laughs].”

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